Golf Etiquette

Only a few more weeks until the Garland Chamber’s 35^th Annual Golf Tournament! Are you ready?! Here are a few tips on how to keep the pace of play, be respectful, but also have time for networking.

• If your hole is hosted by a Tee Box Host, they are there to entertain you, and also make connections, just like you with your team. The moment to talk to the tee box host is at your arrival to the next hole. Take time to introduce yourself to the tee box host then move on to your round. There is an unwritten rule of golf that is “quiet please.” When your team is going to swing, remember to stay quiet, this also includes staying still.
• Watch your golfing partner’s ball. In the interest of keeping the pace of play, keep an eye on your partner’s ball when they hit. This will help decrease the amount of search time.
• Wait for all players in your team to tee off. Once the whole team has made their first shot, then move to the next one.
• Leave no trace. Fix your ball marks, divots and rake the bunker. Leave the golf course as you found it, meaning leave no trash behind as well.
• Don’t walk in another players putt line or through line. Be mindful of other players putting line on the green and their through line, the path line the putt will travel if it misses the hole. Avoid standing or walking on this line to keep the green smooth for putting; nobody likes trying to putt through a footprint.
• Be mindful of your ball marker. If your ball marker is in the way of another players putting line, offer to move the ball marker.
• Tend the pin. For longer putts offer to tend the pin for your fellow golfer. Also, in windier conditions try to keep the flag quiet.
• Respect the course rules.
• Fairway Marshals. Halfway through the course you will find the fairway marshals. Their job is to keep the pace of play. If they notice your team is a little slow, they will let you know. This is not to rush your tee off or putt, but to ensure the tournament ends on time and you can make it to lunch at the pavilion.
• Sportsmanship. Respect your fellow golfers. Don’t make fun of other players. Don’t laugh at their bad shots. Golf karma will catch up to you if you do.
• Shake hands. After a round of golf always shake hands with your playing partners. It is customary to remove one’s hat when shaking hands. This is your opportunity to ask for business cards.

Keep these tips in mind as you play your round of golf on September 20 from 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at Firewheel Golf Park.